Hotel celebrates 40 years, revamps eateries

November 8, 2015

Story By: Lindsey Appleton |

The iconic Hale Koa Hotel recently celebrated its 40th anniversary, and part of its present to itself was a revamped menu at Bibas Courtyard Grill and a total restaurant renovation of Koko at Kalia. The eateries are at the heart of the Hale Koa experience, and, with these two great dining options, Hale Koa patrons, military families and friends alike will quickly become regulars.

Start with happy hour drinks at Bibas and stay for its eclectic local, American menu. Order Taro Crusted Crab Cakes ($10.95) for a pupu, and cut into Grilled Lamb Chops ($28.95) for the main course.

For breakfast and dinner, experience the interactive buffet of Koko at Kalia.

Previously Koko Café, the restaurant has had a total makeover — from the regular buffet offerings and daily specials down to the actual restaurant walls and foundation itself. Overlooking Fort DeRussy Beach Park, patrons have a direct view of the sunset, which can be enjoyed from the new lanai seating sections.

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“Each buffet platter is focused on quality over quantity,” explains Kevin Dugan, director of food and beverage. “There is still the all-you-can-eat feature of buffet-style dining, but our chefs cook in fresh micro-batches, meaning they cook the dishes repeatedly throughout the night rather than making one giant batch.”

Come on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to enjoy Koko’s new Land and Sea Special buffet nights — featuring Alaskan Snow Crab, Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Peel & Eat Shrimp and Fresh Poke ($29.95 per person). Look for the nightly dish at the Chef-hosted Action Station, where a Koko chef makes the special right before your eyes. Don’t forget dessert: Homemade cranberry and vanilla ice cream is this month’s featured flavor, along with baked goods all made in-house.